Aquadive Bathysphere 500 Watch Review

Many think of Rolex when it comes to serious dive pieces, but those that are in the know have looked to Aquadive since the 60s and 70s to meet their professional diving needs. While marketing propelled some brands to soaring heights, Aquadive continued to make headlines where it mattered most: below the waves, riding atop the wrists of professional divers around the world.

After years of being dormant, a team of watch experts, including professional divers, has breathed new life into this iconic brand, one that I believe is not only back, but better than ever. In 2011, Aquadive introduced a new lineup that included NOS cases and parts, marrying Aquadive’s relentless dedication to quality, functionality and unsurpassed vintage-styled aesthetics. The brand continues to remain true to its roots, but it has also modernized itself for today’s customer base.

Every Aquadive timepiece has been constructed with you, the customer, in mind. The company actively strives to earn your business each day, delivering unsurpassed durability, dependability, accuracy, and fine craftsmanship. Each hand assembled Aquadive will not only perform trouble-free, but it will also look good while doing it.

Its rebirth ushered in the Bathysphere 100 and 300, which was, until now, Aquadive’s quintessential diver, reaching depths of 3,000 meters. Aquadive has once again elevated the bar with their newest posh” diver, one that will knock the socks off even the most astute watch collector. Cue in the Aquadive Bathysphere 500 and its Fleurier Twin Barrel movement, a collaborative masterpiece that beckons to be worn.

Aquadive Bathysphere 500 Specs:

• Case Diameter: 43mm
• Case Height: 11.5mm
• Lug Size: 22mm
• Lug to Lug: 47mm
• Strap: 22mm Vanilla-scented ISOfrane
• Movement: Vaucher/ Parmigiani Fleurier Twin Barrel in series
• Crystal: Sapphire crystal (top and bottom of case)
• Water Resistance: 500m/ 1500ft
• Retail Price: $2,990.00 during pre-order to $3,990.00 as of March 31^st, 2015

Aquadive’s watch box has changed quite a bit since the brand’s rebirth, although I am quite sure some of the older offerings are still floating around Aquadive’s headquarters. No more are the days of the small lacquered box, but instead, the Bathysphere 500 arrived in a presentation box worthy of housing such a fine timepiece. The wooden inner box is constructed of deep grain wood, using a top and bottom piece that releases with the push of a button. Both pieces are connected by a high polished hinge system that allows the box to open effortlessly and, while this may be a bit of a stretch, they play a major role in the visual pop against the deep black tone of the overall watch box motif. Black velvet has been replaced with stitched leather, giving it a soft, luxurious feel. When you remove the stitched leather square insert that houses the pillow inset, you’ll find the watch’s timing certificate along with the warranty card. If the box alone is any indication of the watch it houses, then you’re in for a real treat.